The $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct (JHHIP) is giving young women, like Zali Kilgour, a chance to build a career in construction.
The youngster’s one of more than 120 to participate in the Jump Start program… through the eagerly-anticipated project.
After undertaking training, she’s now employed as an apprentice plumber with a subcontractor on the site.
“Participating in Jump Start gave me more confidence to pursue a trade,” Ms Kilgour said.
“Now, now here I am, helping to deliver a huge construction job that will care for the people of my community.”
The initiative is part of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program (ISLP), which aims to develop skills, capability and capacity in the industry and increase diversity on building sites.
Women are playing a key function at the JHHIP, too, currently representing about 14% of the project’s workforce.
“The John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is a great example of fostering an environment, which supports, trains and upskills those interested in building a rewarding career,” Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said.
“Zali’s journey highlights the important role the Jump Start program and major infrastructure projects, like the JHHIP, play in supporting women and creating opportunities in construction.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley concurred.
“The JHHIP is one of the biggest regional health projects we’ve seen and it’s a fantastic chance to shine a light on what it’s like to work in construction,” she said.
“I’ve been out to the precinct and it’s fabulous to see so many women on site, working across a range of roles.
“They’re showing just how much talent and opportunity exists in this industry.
“This redevelopment isn’t just about better healthcare.
“It’s about creating jobs, boosting the local economy and building skills for the future.
“Backing women to be part of that is a win-win for the whole community.”
The Jump Start program is one initiative developed by building contractor Multiplex, in partnership with the NSW Government Women in Construction-focused ISLP.
It offers a range of activities, including site visits and workshops with project sub-contractors, specifically designed for female students in Years 10 to 12 who are interested in careers in the building trades — such as electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, or site supervision — as well as tertiary education pathways.
“Multiplex is committed to attracting and retaining more women in our industry,” NSW managing director David Ghannoum said.
“We created our Jump Start program to show them that construction is a viable, varied and rewarding career choice.
“It’s been wonderful to see our JHHIP project, people and partners come together to inspire the next generation.”
Work on the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is continuing, with the new clinical services building expected to be completed in 2026.
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